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Vancouver Whitecaps boss Robinson urges Reo-Coker to earn his place

Nigel Reo-Coker has been implored to work hard and prove his fitness in order to get back into the Vancouver Whitecaps starting line-up.

The former West Ham United and Aston Villa midfielder was an unused substitute in the weekend's 1-0 loss to the LA Galaxy which did not resonate well after a training session on Tuesday.

Reo-Coker and Robinson exchanged words earlier in the week and the Englishman later stated that he found it tough to be kept out of the team but the coach feels he has a little bit to prove before he is included again.

"He has to show a willingness to train properly, like he did today," Robinson told reporters. "And, obviously, he needs to sway the manager's mind.

"Nigel's just got to earn his place back. He's got to fight, he's got to continue with his fitness."

Reo-Coker could get the chance to return to the Vancouver line-up when the Canadian club again takes on the Galaxy this weekend.